404. What else is required for an authentic human society? (part 1)
(Comp 404) Authentic human society
requires respect for justice, a just hierarchy of values, and the subordination
of material and instinctual dimensions to interior and spiritual ones. In
particular, where sin has perverted the social climate, it is necessary to call
for the conversion of hearts and for the grace of God to obtain social changes
that may really serve each person and the whole person. Charity, which requires
and makes possible the practice of justice, is the greatest social commandment.
“In brief”
(CCC 1895) Society ought to promote the exercise of virtue,
not obstruct it. It should be animated by a just hierarchy of values.
To deepen and
explain
(CCC 1887) The inversion of means and
ends (Cf. CA 41), which results in giving the value of ultimate end to what is
only a means for attaining it, or in viewing persons as mere means to that end,
engenders unjust structures which "make Christian conduct in keeping with
the commandments of the divine Law-giver difficult and almost impossible"
(Pius XII, Address at Pentecost, June 1, 1941).
Reflection
1886) Society is essential to the fulfillment of the human
vocation. To attain this aim, respect must be accorded to the just hierarchy of
values, which "subordinates physical and instinctual dimensions to
interior and spiritual ones" (CA 36 § 2). Human society must primarily be
considered something pertaining to the spiritual. Through it, in the bright
light of truth, men should share their knowledge, be able to exercise their
rights and fulfill their obligations, be inspired to seek spiritual values;
mutually derive genuine pleasure from the beautiful, of whatever order it be;
always be readily disposed to pass on to others the best of their own cultural
heritage; and eagerly strive to make their own the spiritual achievements of
others. These benefits not only influence, but at the same time give aim and
scope to all that has bearing on cultural expressions, economic, and social
institutions, political movements and forms, laws, and all other structures by
which society is outwardly established and constantly developed (John XXIII, PT
36). [IT CONTINUES]
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